A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Subject: Literature (Drama)

Grade Level: 11-12 (Adjust based on maturity level)

Time Allotment: 5-7 days (depending on depth of analysis)

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will be able to analyze the major themes of the play, including illusion vs. reality, desire and violence, and the fragility of the Southern Belle ideal.
  • Students will be able to interpret the symbolism used throughout the play.
  • Students will be able to understand the characters' motivations and analyze their complex relationships.
  • Students will be able to discuss the play's historical context and Tennessee Williams' writing style.

Materials:

  • Copies of "A Streetcar Named Desire"
  • Whiteboard or projector
  • Markers or pens
  • Chart paper
  • Optional: Images or clips from film adaptations of the play

Lesson Procedures:

Day 1: Introduction and Background

  1. Do Now: Have students brainstorm what they know about the American South in the early 20th century. Briefly discuss stereotypes and historical context.
  2. Introduction: Introduce Tennessee Williams and his play "A Streetcar Named Desire." Briefly discuss the plot and characters.
  3. Setting the Stage: Divide the class into groups and assign each group a scene from Act I. Have them read the scene and identify key details about the setting, characters, and any conflicts introduced.
  4. Class Discussion: Facilitate a class discussion about the groups' findings. What is the atmosphere of the Kowalski household? What are the first impressions of Blanche and Stanley?

Day 2: Character Analysis

  1. Do Now: Have students write down adjectives to describe Blanche DuBois and Stanley Kowalski.
  2. Character Exploration: Divide the class into pairs and assign each pair a character (Blanche, Stanley, Stella, Mitch). Have them analyze the character's motivations, desires, and conflicts throughout Act I and II. Encourage students to find textual evidence to support their analysis.
  3. Gallery Walk: Have each pair create a poster summarizing their assigned character. Include key quotes, motivations, and symbols associated with the character. Post the posters around the classroom.
  4. Class Discussion: Facilitate a gallery walk where students rotate between posters, reading and discussing each character analysis.

Day 3: Themes and Symbolism

  1. Do Now: Write the following themes on the board: Illusion vs. Reality, Desire and Violence, The Fragility of the Southern Belle Ideal. Have students brainstorm examples from the play that connect to each theme.
  2. Symbolism Deep Dive: Discuss the importance of symbolism in the play. Brainstorm symbols (e.g., the paper lantern, the polka dot dress, the Elysian Fields) and analyze their significance to the characters and themes.
  3. Close Reading Activity: Select a pivotal scene from Act III and have students closely read the scene, highlighting examples of symbolism, character development, and thematic connections.

Day 4: Historical Context and Literary Devices

  1. Do Now: Briefly discuss the concept of Southern Gothic literature and its characteristics. How does "A Streetcar Named Desire" fit into this genre?
  2. Historical Context: Research the social and economic realities of the American South during the time period of the play (Great Depression, changing social roles). Discuss how these factors might influence the characters and themes.
  3. Literary Techniques: Discuss Tennessee Williams' writing style. Analyze how he uses dialogue, stage directions, and monologues to create a dramatic and emotional experience.

Day 5: Culminating Activity (Options):

  • Essay Writing: Students can write an essay analyzing a specific theme or character in the play.
  • Scene Performance: Divide the class into groups and have them choose a scene to perform for the class.
  • Modernization Project: Have students rewrite a scene from the play in a modern setting, exploring how the themes might translate to contemporary society.

Assessment:

  • Class participation in discussions
  • Gallery walk posters
  • Close reading activity analysis
  • Culminating activity (essay, performance, or project)

Differentiation:

  • Provide scaffolding and support for struggling readers.
  • Offer alternative assignments for students who are not comfortable performing.
  • Encourage advanced students to delve deeper into specific themes or historical aspects of the play.

Extension Activities:

  • Watch clips from film adaptations of the play and compare them to the written text.
  • Research Tennessee Williams' life and explore how his own experiences might have influenced his writing.